Indefinite Leave to Remain

There are several different routes to ILR, depending on your immigration history and the basis on which you have been living in the UK. The most common routes include five years on the Skilled Worker or family route, ten years of continuous lawful residence, settlement on the basis of domestic violence, and settlement as a bereaved partner. Each route has specific requirements that must be carefully met.

• Five years on the Skilled Worker, Intra-Company Transfer or other work routes
• Five years on the spouse, partner or family route
• Ten years of continuous lawful residence (long residence route)
• Settlement on the basis of domestic violence (SET(DV))
• Settlement as a bereaved partner (SET(BN))
• Settlement on the basis of long residence as a child
• Returning residents applications

Most ILR applications require you to pass the Life in the UK test, demonstrate sufficient English language proficiency, and show that you have not spent more than 180 days outside the United Kingdom in any rolling 12-month period during the qualifying period. It is essential to review your travel history carefully before submitting your application, as an excess of absences can result in refusal.

• Continuous lawful residence throughout the qualifying period
• No more than 180 days' absence in any 12-month period
• Life in the UK test pass certificate
• English language requirement (B1 CEFR on SELT or equivalent qualification)
• Good character — no serious criminal convictions
• No outstanding NHS debt over £500

Once you have obtained ILR, you may be eligible to apply for British citizenship by naturalisation after holding ILR for twelve months (or immediately if you are the spouse of a British citizen). Our solicitors can advise you on the full pathway from ILR to citizenship, ensuring every step is handled correctly.